Blue Jackets team president Mike Priest issued the following statement this morning:

“We remain appreciative of the support and loyalty exhibited by Blue Jackets fans. The relationships we have with our fans and corporate partners are of paramount importance to us and we are sincerely sorry for any inconvenience that results from this necessary action.

“The NHL continues to be committed to negotiating around the clock to reach a new CBA that is fair to the players and all 30 teams. The League, the clubs and the players all have a stake in resolving our bargaining issues appropriately and getting the puck dropped as soon as possible. We owe it to each other, to the game, and most of all, to the fans.

“Over the past several months, we have made significant improvements to our team and coaching staff. Several significant upgrades also have been made to Nationwide Arena, most noticeably the addition of The Dispatch Media Center – a state-of-the-art scoreboard – that will greatly enhance the fan experience of attending a Blue Jackets game. We are excited about what lies ahead and anxious to begin a new chapter in the history of our hockey club.”